Honiara-based Lauru community hosts Hard Talk ahead of 35th Second Appointed Day celebrations

By Alfred Pagepitu

The Honiara-based Lauru community of Choiseul Province gathered today at the National Museum Auditorium in Honiara for a “Hard Talk” program ahead of the province’s 35th Second Appointed Day anniversary on 25th February in Honiara.

The discussion, led by Organising Committee Chairman Mr Shepherd Lapo, reflected on Choiseul’s journey since becoming a separate province in 1992.

The event was held under the theme: “Celebrating 35 Years of Unity and Progress – Honouring our Past and Shaping our Future.”

Among the speakers was community women’s leader Ms Ruth Lilogula, who highlighted the importance of unity and the role of women in preserving land, culture and identity.

“Unity is the heartbeat of Choiseul.

“Though we come from different villages, clans and faiths, we share one identity as sons and daughters of Lauru.”

Ms Lilogula reminded the community that unity has helped Choiseul overcome challenges in the past, but warned that it is now being threatened.

She also stressed the importance of women’s roles in society, calling on all sons and daughters of Lauru to speak up on development issues.

“This unity is being challenged by the misuse of our customs for personal interests.

“We must protect it, because it is the anchor that keeps us steady.

“We are the most important part of Choiseul because we ensure our genealogy, our land security and our cultural continuity,” she said.

Other panelists included youth representative Mr Nelson Kere, senior government officer Dr Jones Gabu, and businessman Mr Bauro Koraua.

Meanwhile, Mr Lapo said the Hard Talk program was organised to give Lauru people in Honiara an opportunity to reflect on the province’s journey over the past 35 years and discuss the way forward.

Mr Lapo said the Second Appointed Day is a significant milestone for the people of Choiseul Province, marking the province’s establishment in 1992 and its progress since then.

He explained that tomorrow’s celebrations will begin at 9am with a flag-raising ceremony, including the hoisting of the Solomon Islands national flag and the Choiseul provincial flag, followed by a blessing and thanksgiving prayer to be led by Reverend Kedrick Kasa.

“Our guest speaker will be Mr Joseph Pitakia, who will deliver a reflection on the significance of the Second Appointed Day and the path forward for Lauru,” Mr Lapo said.

He added that the program will also include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, cultural performances, and community celebrations.

Mr Lapo encouraged all Choiseul people living in and around Honiara to attend the celebration.

“This is a time for the people of Lauru to come together, reflect on how far we have come, and showcase the true spirit of unity and identity of our province,” he said.

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